Lowestoft Town boss Dale Brooks admitted there could be some “tough times” ahead but is confident he can keep the Blues out of trouble.

The Trawlerboys followed up an important 1-0 win against Merstham last weekend with a poor display in a 3-0 defeat at Thurrock in the Bostik League Premier Division. Brooks is keen to establish a winning consistency within the Lowestoft group ahead of their home clash against Margate this afternoon.

“We have to be prepared for some tough times,” said the former Southend Under-21s, who took over from Ady Gallagher last month. “We might have days like Thurrock but we’ve got to try and have more days like Merstham.

“We’ve got to try and establish a bit of consistency. There are a few things we can do but we’ve got to be patient.”

Brooks has been working on bringing in some players on loan to boost the Blues in the wake of Freddy Westlake’s departure earlier this week– he started yesterday when striker Matthew Foy joined on a month’s loan from Cambridge United.

The centre half wasn’t getting the game time he wanted at the Amber Dew Events Stadium and it has led to an amicable parting of ways. “I had a conversation with Freddie and we spoke about his future game time,” added Brooks. “He was living away from home in digs and every weekend it was a long way for him to get back to Bognor, which is where he lives.

“He appreciated my honesty and I’ve got the utmost respect for the professionalism he showed.

“We are looking to bring in players on loan - it’s an ongoing situation - but there are certain obstacles to that. Things will happen in that regard but it might take a bit of time.”

Brooks is keen to put his own stamp on the Lowestoft squad and insists he hasn’t found the transition from assistant to boss difficult.

“I think one of my biggest strengths is my man-management skills,” he said. “I’ve assisted some inexperienced managers in the past and I’m lucky in that they have always listened to my advice.

“I’m obviously making the final decisions now and I’m always confident in my ability to make sure the lads I’m working with respond well.”

Lowestoft will be without Jacek Zielonka through suspension this afternoon but it is hoped Adam Smith will return after missing the match at Thurrock.